What does DRI refer to in the context of behavioral strategies?

Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behavior (DRI) is a behavioral strategy used to encourage a desired behavior while simultaneously discouraging an undesired behavior by reinforcing a behavior that cannot occur simultaneously with the undesired one. In this context, DRI is effective in promoting positive behaviors since the alternative behavior must be incompatible with the inappropriate behavior, thereby reducing the likelihood of the latter occurring.

For example, if a child engages in yelling to gain attention, DRI would involve reinforcing a behavior such as raising a hand to get attention instead. By doing so, the child learns that the desired incompatible behavior is more rewarding, which in turn diminishes the unwanted yelling behavior.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the standard definition of DRI. Differential Reinforcement of Initiative behavior suggests a focus on initiative, which is not the primary aim of DRI. Dynamic Response Initiative is vague and lacks a specified behavioral framework. Differential Response Intervention does not align with the concept of promoting incompatible behaviors, which is the key aspect of DRI. This precise structure of DRI makes it a valuable tool in behavioral interventions, especially in settings such as autism services where understanding and modifying behavior is essential.